Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity (All Years 2007-2024)

The Lexus RX 350 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced from 2007 to the present across four generations. Towing capacity varies by model year, drivetrain configuration, and whether a factory tow package is installed.

This guide covers year-by-year towing specifications for the Lexus RX 350, including maximum trailer weight, payload capacity, tongue weight limits, GCWR, and hitch class requirements. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits is essential for protecting the engine, transmission, braking system, and chassis integrity.

2024 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2024 Lexus RX 350 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when equipped with the factory tow package. Without the tow package installed, the rated trailer weight limit drops to 1,000 lbs (453 kg). The 2.4L turbocharged engine provides 317 lb-ft of torque, which supports the full towing rating across both FWD and AWD configurations.

2023 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package, or 1,000 lbs (453 kg) without it. The fourth-generation RX 350 introduced a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine as a departure from the long-running 3.5L V-6 configuration. This engine swap maintained the same overall towing limit as prior generations when properly equipped.

2022 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when the factory tow package is installed, or 1,000 lbs (453 kg) without it. This is the final model year of the third-generation RX 350 equipped with the 3.5L V-6 engine. The GVWR for this generation is rated at 5,864 lbs (2,660 kg).

2021 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2021 Lexus RX 350 carries a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the factory tow package, and 1,000 lbs (453 kg) without it. The 3.5L V-6 engine and available AWD drivetrain support this trailer weight rating across all trim levels. The curb weight of the 2021 RX 350 is approximately 4,387 lbs (1,989 kg).

2020 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 is rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity with a tow package, and 1,000 lbs (453 kg) when unequipped. Towing limits remain consistent across all trim levels for this model year. The GVWR is 5,864 lbs (2,660 kg) for the third-generation RX 350.

2019 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2019 Lexus RX 350 supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when the tow package is installed. Without the factory tow package, the trailer weight limit is 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for all trim configurations. Drivetrain selection does not change the rated maximum towing limit for this model year.

2018 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2018 Lexus RX 350 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) only when the tow package is properly installed. Without the package, the safe trailer weight limit drops to 1,000 lbs (453 kg). The 3.5L V-6 produces sufficient torque to operate at the maximum trailer weight limit on grades when properly equipped.

2017 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2017 Lexus RX 350 offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package, and 1,000 lbs (453 kg) without it. This model year is part of the third-generation RX 350 platform introduced in 2016, sharing the same GVWR of 5,864 lbs (2,660 kg). The curb weight is approximately 4,387 lbs (1,989 kg) for AWD-equipped models.

2016 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2016 Lexus RX 350 marks the start of the third-generation platform, rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity with the tow package. The unequipped trailer weight limit for this model year is 1,000 lbs (453 kg). The 2016 redesign carried a GVWR of 5,864 lbs (2,660 kg), an increase from the prior generation.

2015 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2015 Lexus RX 350 can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package, or 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. This is a notable difference from the subsequent generation, which reduced the unequipped towing rating to 1,000 lbs. The GVWR for the second-generation RX 350 is approximately 5,650 lbs (2,563 kg).

2014 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2014 Lexus RX 350 is rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity with the tow package installed, and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. The GVWR is approximately 5,650 lbs (2,563 kg) for this generation. Payload capacity is approximately 1,140 lbs (517 kg) depending on drivetrain and options.

2013 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2013 Lexus RX 350 supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the factory tow package, and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. All trim levels share the same towing ratings for this model year. The 3.5L V-6 engine and GVWR of 5,650 lbs (2,563 kg) are consistent with the second-generation platform.

2012 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2012 Lexus RX 350 has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package, and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. The GVWR for this model year is 5,644 lbs (2,560 kg) and the curb weight is approximately 4,343 lbs (1,970 kg). AWD models carry a slightly higher curb weight, which reduces available payload.

2011 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2011 Lexus RX 350 carries a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package, and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. This model year belongs to the second-generation RX platform, with a GVWR of 5,644 lbs (2,560 kg). The 3.5L V-6 engine configuration is standard across all second-generation models.

2010 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2010 Lexus RX 350 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. The maximum payload capacity is 1,307 lbs (593 kg) according to manufacturer data. The gross vehicle weight is 5,650 lbs (2,563 kg) and the curb weight is 4,343 lbs (1,970 kg).

2009 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2009 Lexus RX 350 supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when equipped with the tow package, and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. This is the final model year of the first-generation RX 350 platform introduced in 2007. The GVWR for this generation is approximately 5,265 lbs (2,388 kg).

2008 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the tow package and 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without it. The first-generation platform uses the 3.5L V-6 and a GVWR of 5,265 lbs (2,388 kg). Drivetrain selection does not alter the maximum towing capacity for this model year.

2007 Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity

The 2007 Lexus RX 350 is the first model year of the nameplate and is rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum towing capacity with the tow package. Without the tow package, the trailer weight limit is 2,000 lbs (907 kg). The GVWR is 5,265 lbs (2,388 kg) and the curb weight is approximately 4,090 lbs (1,855 kg).

Towing Equipment and Setup

Proper towing equipment is required to safely reach the rated maximum trailer weight. Operating at the tow limit without the correct hitch class, trailer brake controller, or transmission cooler increases the risk of drivetrain damage and loss of braking control.

Tow Package Components

The Lexus factory tow package includes a heavy-duty radiator, a cooling fan, engine and transmission oil coolers, a tow hitch receiver, a trailer ball, and a ball mount. Installing this package is required to achieve the full 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) towing rating on all generations of the RX 350.

Hitch Class

The Lexus RX 350 uses a Class III trailer hitch across all model years. A Class III hitch supports up to 4,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 600 lbs tongue weight when using an aftermarket-rated receiver. The standard receiver opening is 2 inches x 2 inches.

Trailer Brake Controller

When towing trailers above 1,500 lbs, a trailer brake controller is strongly recommended. A brake controller coordinates trailer brakes with the tow vehicle braking system, reducing stopping distance and reducing strain on the RX 350’s brakes.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing hitch is not typically required at the RX 350’s towing limit of 3,500 lbs. However, for loads above 3,000 lbs, a weight-distributing setup helps equalize tongue weight distribution across the trailer and vehicle axles, improving handling stability.

Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup

FAQs

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Lexus RX 350?

The maximum towing capacity of the Lexus RX 350 is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). This rating applies to all model years from 2007 through the current generation when the factory tow package is installed.

How much can a Lexus RX 350 tow without a tow package?

Without the factory tow package, the Lexus RX 350 is limited to 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for 2016 and newer model years. For 2007 through 2015 model years, the unequipped towing limit is 2,000 lbs (907 kg).

Does AWD affect Lexus RX 350 towing capacity?

AWD and FWD configurations share the same maximum towing capacity on the Lexus RX 350. AWD does improve traction and stability when towing on grades, wet roads, or uneven terrain, but the rated trailer weight limit is identical for both drivetrain options.

What trailer weight is safe for a Lexus RX 350?

A safe trailer weight for a Lexus RX 350 should not exceed 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when the tow package is installed. Total payload, including passengers, cargo, and tongue weight, must also remain within the vehicle’s rated payload capacity and GCWR.

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Lexus RX 350?

A weight-distributing hitch is not required for towing at the RX 350’s maximum limit of 3,500 lbs. However, it is recommended for loads approaching the maximum to improve axle load distribution and steering control during towing.

What hitch class does the Lexus RX 350 use?

The Lexus RX 350 uses a Class III trailer hitch receiver across all model years. The receiver accepts a standard 2-inch x 2-inch ball mount and is rated to a maximum tongue weight of approximately 350 lbs (159 kg) at the full tow capacity.

Conclusion

The Lexus RX 350 maintains a consistent maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) across all model years from 2007 to the present, provided the factory tow package is installed. Without tow package equipment, the trailer weight limit ranges from 2,000 lbs (907 kg) for 2007-2015 models to 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for 2016 and newer models. The engine configuration changed from the 3.5L V-6 to a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder beginning with the 2023 model year, but the maximum towing specification remained the same. The Class III hitch, factory transmission cooler, and trailer brake setup are the primary equipment factors that determine whether the full towing limit can be safely achieved. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.